Enjoy exploring north Essex this summer. Here’s a look at 10 attractions to discover in the Tendring area.
Watch Clacton Airshow
Clacton Airshow, now in its 27th year, takes place on August 23-24, and promises some dazzling displays. The programme includes twilight flights in the evening, and a whole host of activities on the ground too along Clacton seafront.
To keep up-to-date with flight announcements and information, visit the website.
Visit Historic Harwich
The town is gearing up to celebrate 400 years since the Mayflower – led by local man Captain Jones – set sail to America. There is a wealth to see and do in Harwich, including the Festival of the Arts (June 21 – July 1) and the International Shanty Festival (October 5-7).
For full details of events and activities, follow the link.
Enjoy Constable Country
Mistley and Manningtree are the gateway to Constable Country, the Dedham Vale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Steeped in history, Manningtree is referred to in Shakespeare’s Henry IV and was also where Witch Finder General Matthew Hopkins began his reign of terror in the 17th Century.
See A House for Essex
Designed by Turner Prize-winning Essex artist Grayson Perry A House for Essex, in Wrabness, can be rented and stayed in, but the demand is so high that you have to win a ballot to book.
A work of art inside and out, it tells the story of Essex woman Julie and the trials and tribulations of her life. It can be viewed from the outside. Learn more or bid to stay here.
Explore Brightlingsea
There is plenty to do in Brightlingsea, from the outdoor pool and boating lake to the beach. It’s a historic town, part of the Cinque Liberty Ports which banded together to fend off invasion as far back as Saxon times,
Events include the music festival (August 3-5) and Food & Drink Festival (August 25-26).
Navigate the Naze
The Naze at Walton-on-the-Naze is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a haven for wildlife. The Essex Wildlife Trust-run visitor centre provides information on the birds, seals and other animals you may see as well as the fascinating geological history of the area.
The Naze Tower offers spectacular views and refreshments. Find out more about the reserve at www.essexwt.org.uk/reserves/naze and the tower at www.nazetower.co.uk
Frolic in Frinton
Famed for maintaining its coastal destination chic, Frinton has a number of attractions, including its sandy beach, beautiful beach huts, and the Railway Cottage. The Frinton and Walton Heritage Trust also runs the Walton Maritime Museum just up the coast.
Learn more about what to see and do at the trust’s website.
Stroll Along the Piers
Tendring’s coastline is home to many piers, from the historic Ha’penny Pier at Harwich Quay to the amusement arcades and entertainment on Walton and Clacton Piers.
Each has places to eat and offers its own stunning views, so take a stroll along these walkways over the sea. Visit the Clacton pier website here, the Walton pier website here and the Harwich pier website here.
Browse Beth Chatto Gardens
The late award-winning plantswoman Beth Chatto took over a piece of waste ground with poor water supplies in Elmstead Market in 1960 with her husband Andrew, and turned it into a thriving beacon of what a garden can be. It is now also home to a nursery and tea rooms.
Discover more at the gardens website.
Tour Around Tendring
There is a lot more to the Tendring district beyond the previous nine points.
From historic churches and monasteries – some dating to the 11th Century – to the country’s largest village green in Great Bentley and much more besides, Get out and explore this summer, and see what hidden gems you can find.
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